Belles Montagnes et Mer Train

Your next vacation in the Hokuriku region should definitely include a countryside journey along Toyama Bay and the Tateyama Mountain Range. The unique Belles Montagne et Mer train travels on the Johana Line on Saturdays from Takaoka to Johana and the Himi Line on Sundays from Tonami or Shin-Takaoka to Himi. 

On the Johana Line route, the surrounding mountain scenery and vast, sprawling fields are absolutely stunning. This train takes you to the preserved thatched-roof houses of Gokayama Village, the ancient Zuiryuji Temple in Takaoka and the colorful Tonami Tulip Park. By the Himi Line, the spectacular Amaharashi Coast offers an unforgettable vista, particularly of the sculptural Onnaiwa rock floating on the ocean and bordered by sandy beaches and pine trees.

Belles Montagne et Mer

Photo by: PIXTA/ まさくん

The single-car locomotive can accommodate only thirty-nine passengers. One side of the train offers box seats with a table in between, accommodating up to four people. The other side has individual seats and counters facing windows for a maximum panoramic spectacle. There is also a separate long bench and viewing area with a high, round table. Next to the sushi counter, you can spot a sales corner selling Toyama and train souvenirs.

Traditional Design

Photo by: Alma Reyes

The old-fashioned wooden seats, tables, and counters, and the moss green velvet upholstery imbue an air of nostalgia. Traditional Imami carvings from Nanto City showing motifs of Gassho-style houses, mountains, wild flowers, and the native Kokiriko dance embellish the back seats and dividers. The leather strap handles are decorated with famous Takaoka copperware. At the rear end of the train is a glass case displaying various crafts from Tonami City. See tea bowls made from Shogawa woodwork and teacups molded from Ecchu Sansuke ware. The approximately one-hour excursion, hence, serves not only as a sightseeing expedition but as a gallery visit as well. 

Dining Experience

Passengers can savor sumptuous sushi and other seafood dishes prepared from freshly caught fish from Toyama Bay. Chefs on board demonstrate their culinary skills on the spot. Enjoy a special taste of local sake (rice wine) with snacks while gazing at the majestic landscape and ocean views. The set menus require advanced reservation, excluded from the seat price.